Eastern Mediterranean ‘Namak’ Replaces Mintwood Place in AdMo

Adams Morgan’s Mintwood Place owner Saied Azali and partner John Cidre (co-owner Shaw’s Unconventional Diner) unveiled an Eastern Mediterranean restaurant in its place (1813 Columbia Road, NW) last week.

The upscale casual Eastern Mediterranean restaurant, Namak, aims to be a neighborhood favorite, with a mix of familiar mezze, kebabs, and other Persian and Turkish specialties in its 90+-seat dining room.

“Adams Morgan is my home, and I know many neighbors are thrilled about our newest venture,” Azali said. “Namak embodies the flavors I hold dear. It is the Farsi word for salt, but for Iranians like me, it connotes hospitality and generosity and I hope it becomes a cherished destination for our community.”

We’re looking forward to the Mast-O-Bademjan, a smoked eggplant dip; Zeytoon Parvardeh, a salad featuring olives, pomegranate, chard, and fresh mint; and Lahmacun, a traditional flatbread paying homage to Chef Tolgahan’s homeland, but you’re sure to find lots of exciting offerings in the menu’s array of meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes.

Namak will be open for dinner service Tues – Sat. Outdoor patio, lunch, and brunch services may be introduced later this year.